Heirok womenfolk come out against "return arms" call
Source: The Sangai Express
Thoubal, June 03 2023:
Womenfolk of Heirok Part I Mayai Leikai today staged a sit-in demanding that Manipur's integrity should not be disturbed and seeking withdrawal of Assam Rifles from the State.
Speaking on the sidelines of the sit-in, one Laishram Purnimashi lamented that the clash which erupted on May 3 remained unsettled even after a month and despite Central leaders' visit to the State.
Decrying continuous killing and arson by Kuki militants in areas adjoining valley and hill districts and inaction on the part of the State and the Central Governments, she likened the acts with a bid to wipe out the Meitei community.
She also came out strongly against Chief Minister Biren's appeal to return and surrender arms snatched from security forces.
Instead of trying to find a solution to the present crisis, the Chief Minister's call to return the arms being used for protection of vulnerable villages from the attacks of well armed militants was "unreasonable and irresponsible", she said.
The CM has failed to protect lives and properties of the citizens of the State and as such he should immediately step down from his post, she said while also raising demand for withdrawal of central armed forces who have failed to contribute in restoring normalcy.
She also expressed regret over Union Home Minister's announcement for starting chopper service in three districts and Rs 10 lakh each as ex-gratia for persons killed during the communal clash while sidelining the call for abrogation of SoO pact with Kuki militants.
While demanding immediate abrogation of SoO pact with Kuki militants, she also urged both the State and the Central Governments to not inspire third "Nupi Laan" .
Placards reading "Meiteis/Meeteis want peace", "Open up National Highways", "Implement NRC" etc were on display during the sit-in.
The protestors also observed two-minute silence as a mark of respect to those who have lost their lives during the ongoing communal clash.